Category: New Zealand v England ODI Series 2018

Saturday 10th March 11:00 NZDT Hagley Oval, Christchurch

With the current ODI series locked at 2-2, Saturday’s decider at Hagley Oval looks set to be a fantastic game of cricket. There’s all to play for in the final game. The hosts came back from a seemingly unwinnable position to win by 5 wickets in the 4th ODI on Tuesday. This came courtesy of an unbeaten 181* from the injured Ross Taylor. Taylor found himself out in the middle with New Zealand 2/2 in the 3rd over chasing 336 to win. England will have been disappointed with their batting effort despite scoring 267/1 with 13 overs remaining. The middle order then collapsed losing 6 wickets for only 21 runs in the next 7 overs. England will want revenge come Saturday.

That win, however, will be sure to give New Zealand confidence heading into Saturday’s game. They may sadly be without one of their key players. Match-winner Ross Taylor is facing a fitness battle after suffering a thigh injury in the last game. With Taylor in doubt, Mark Chapman could be recalled into the side to take his place.

For the England camp. They may shake things up after Tuesday’s game with David Willey returning to the side. The bowler sat out the last two games after losing his place to Mark Wood.

A close game looks to be on the cards. There’s all to play for. Both teams have had some strong performers with the bat this series. Each side will need to be on their game as a high total will be needed to win this Saturday.